Is that Holiday stress setting in already? It used to be easy. It used to be fun. Today shopping for a child can be one big headache. Kids today have a thousand toys and each new one just seems to make more noise! The right gift should be special. It should be something that will last, something that uniquely shows your love. Give a holiday gift that is well made, and will be treasured for years to come.

The best Christmas and Hannukah gifts are ones that will be remembered, perhaps kept and passed onto the next generation. For this holiday season, go back to the basics. Here are some ideas:

 Something Handmade
 Something to Preserve Their Memories
 Something For the Future

Something Handmade

There is something so special about handmade gifts. You know that someone’s hard work went into every piece. Each is unique and made with care. You may not have the time to make something yourself, but many great gifts are available online. For that special baby on your list – how about a handmade baby blanket? A beautiful blanket will keep them warm and secure when you can’t be there to give them a hug. A wooden rocking horse makes a great gift for a younger child. What fun they can have rocking the day away. Another great gift is a toy box. This is one that Mom and Dad will love to, because all the toys can be easily piled in at the end of the day.

Something to Preserve Their Memories

Children are only young for a very short time. While it’s often difficult for a sleep-deprived parent to remember this, it’s certainly clear when you’re looking in on a young family. Use this holiday gift giving time to help them capture these special moments. A personalized photo album is a wonderful gift choice. Preserve those memories because kids love to look back at themselves as they grow.

For a slightly

Something For the Future

Of course, you want a great future for your grandchildren. You want a future that includes education and strong relationships. Well you can put the wheels in motion. Use this gift giving occasion to support those hopes and dreams. First you could invest in their future education. A 529 Plan may sound technical, but it’s actually a very easy way to start saving money for school. A plan can be started with as little as $250.

Don’t forget that the very best present may be giving of yourself. Today’s lifestyle is very hectic. People are often far separated from extended family and friends and staying in close touch makes for a very strong relationship. Make more phone calls, even a 2-year old benefits from hearing your voice on the phone. Start an email account. Record some stories on tape – these can played again and again, bringing your voice close. Come and baby sit, enjoy the double benefit of spending more time with the little one and letting Mom and Dad get a needed break.

Let’s keep our holiday focus in the right place. Let’s make it about love and family. May these gift ideas help make your holiday a joyous one.

Keri Blaustein
www.LovelynBlankets.com
Baby Blankets from the Heart

About The Author

Keri Blaustein is the mother of 3 and founder of www.LovelynBlankets.com. Lovelyn Blankets offers beautiful, handmade baby blankets, the perfect gift for any new baby. Keri can be reached at kblaustein@lovelynblankets.com.